DBIA Mentorship Program: Empowering the Next Generation of Design-Build Leaders
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read

The Design-Build Institute of America (DBIA) is proud to offer a dynamic and impactful Mentorship Program designed to connect experienced design-build professionals with emerging leaders across the AEC industry. As the only organization that defines, teaches, and promotes Design-Build Done Right®, DBIA understands that cultivating future-ready talent requires intentional guidance and strong professional networks. That’s why our mentorship program exists — to support, educate, and inspire.
This national mentorship initiative is open to DBIA members, including students, young professionals, and established industry practitioners looking to expand their skills or transition to new career paths. The program connects these mentees with certified DBIA professionals who are eager to share their expertise and help guide the next generation of design-build leaders.
Why Join the DBIA Mentorship Program?
Whether you’re just starting out or navigating a career shift, a mentoring relationship can be transformative. Mentees benefit from personalized support, insight into real-world challenges, and access to resources that help them grow professionally. DBIA-certified mentors offer a wealth of experience across multiple sectors, from transportation and water/wastewater to education and healthcare design-build projects.
For mentors, the program is an opportunity to give back to the industry, enhance leadership skills, and create lasting professional connections. Many mentors say they gain just as much from the experience as their mentees do, making this a truly reciprocal relationship.
How the Program Works
The DBIA Mentorship Program runs on a structured yet flexible model. Mentors and mentees are matched based on their professional goals, interests, and areas of expertise. Mentors commit to a minimum one-year engagement and agree to meet with their mentee at least four times a year, either virtually or in person.
To become a mentor, you must be a DBIA-certified professional in good standing and complete a brief application form. Mentees, including students with part-time industry roles and professionals seeking project experience or career guidance, are encouraged to apply and select their top mentor preferences from DBIA’s national directory.
Program Benefits at a Glance
Personalized career guidance and support
Access to seasoned professionals in the design-build community
Strengthened leadership and communication skills
Deeper engagement in DBIA’s mission and national network
Enhanced visibility within the design-build industry
Opportunities to attend mentorship events at the DBIA Design-Build Conference & Expo
Whether you’re interested in mentorship in construction, design-build career development, or AEC industry leadership, this program offers unmatched access to the people and insights shaping the future of design-build delivery.
Get Involved
If you’re a DBIA member and ready to grow—personally or professionally—the DBIA Mentorship Program is the place to start.
Questions?
Reach out to our Membership Department at membership@dbia.org